5 Must-have Fashionable Pieces to Pack for Every Weekend Trip

Weekend trips are a great way to take a little break from the daily hustle and bustle. Getting away is great, and while you're enjoying yourself you want to look good too! Since Summer is right around the corner, my top 5 pieces are definitely beach-vacation worthy! <3 

1. A Maxi-dress! I love long dresses, they are so comfortable and great for a casual, beach look. They look good on practically every body type & can be dressed up or down.

2. Swim suit! (of course) Hopefully where you're vacationing is sunny and warm, but even if it isn't bring a swim suit! Hopefully your hotel will have a hot tub at least and that's always a great way to relax!

3. LBD the "little black dress": Assuming you'll get some time alone with 'the hubby' bring that LBD along! The little black dress has long been considered a wardrobe staple. If you don't have one...it's shopping time! (and now you have an excuse!)

4. No-fuss hair care products like dry shampoo and clips or hair bands to pull your hair back. Also, I'd recommend a texturizing spray like Bumble and Bumble SURF spray which gives your hair that sexy, salty, wind-styled and 'just-left-the-beach' look! 

5. Don't forget to pack a light sweater or jacket in case it get's chilly in the evening!

I wrote this blog post while participating in the TwitterMoms and Gap Outlet blogging program to be eligible to win a $20 gift card. For more information on how you can participate, click here.

10 Tips for Being Fashionable on a Budget

YES! It truly is possible to be fashionable without breaking the bank. I used to be a spend-a-holic, but parenthood has taught me to shop more wisely. Here are my top 10 ways you too can be fashionable on a budget!

1. DO shop in stores! I know there are great deals online, but I've noticed for department stores and especially stores like Target and Wal-Mart, you can find GREAT deals in the store. (Recently I bought a shirt at Wal-Mart from the $3.00 rack and saw it on their website the next day for $8.00!)


2. Sign up for SALE alerts! There are great sites like shopittome.com and shopstyle.com that let you pick the brands/stores you like, your size and price preferences and they'll send you e-mails with clothes, shoes and accessories within your specified price range. I set mine to $20.00!

3. Shop RESALE stores! Resale and thrift stores have become quite popular lately, and I love thrift shopping!  You won't always  find things that you like, but I recommend checking weekly. It's a great way to get some alone time and shop! Resale stores are wonderful because you can also sell your old and lightly worn clothes! (My local Salvation Army Stores does 50% off clothes/purses every Wednesday...check yours!)

4. Sign up for your favorite stores' newsletter/mailing list, you'll get e-mails to let you know when things go on sale, or their having any type of promotions. Most stores will often send you coupons as well!

5. Organize a clothing SWAP! Encourage your friends/coworkers to gather their lightly used clothes and get together for a swap party. You'll all hopefully find something new and not spend a penny!

6. DISCOUNT stores are great also! Shop places like TJ Maxx, Marshalls and Ross for brand names at lower prices. Some things are still a bit pricey, so take your time and look around...you're sure to find something you like!

7. Do a double-take on your laundry routine. I was always lazy in terms of separating and washing clothes but I've noticed that since I created a routine and began paying attention to how my clothes needed to be washed, they are looking nice for longer. Nothing is worse than trying to combine an outfit of worn out and faded clothes!

8. Know what looks good on YOU! Trends in fashion come and go, so don't feel the need to hop on every bandwagon that rolls through. Always dress in clothing that flatters you and if the current 'it' item doesn't...don't waste your time or money.

9. Buy things LATE....or ahead of time (depending on how you look at it). Post-season sales are an awesome way to get great prices! You'll be getting things you can use for next year, or maybe an unusually warm Fall day. :)

10. My favorite tip of all! Find a TAILOR! Don't be afraid to buy something that you like even if it's a bit big,
getting something altered is inexpensive and definitely worth it if you find something for an unbeatable price.

I wrote this blog post while participating in the TwitterMoms and Gap Outlet blogging program to be eligible to win a $20 gift card. For more information on how you can participate, click here.